ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ in Lakeview & Wrigleyville
Best Rooftop Restaurants in Lakeview & Wrigleyville
Master Critic Review
Old Crow Smokehouse
8.2
Old Crow Smokehouse’s Wrigleyville outpost is a high-capacity bar-and-BBQ spot where smoked ribs, pulled pork, and brisket meet country playlists, a large patio, and game-day crowds. With more than a thousand Google reviews and steady traffic, it’s the play for groups looking to pair pitchers and live entertainment with approachable barbecue.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Baby Back Ribs, Burnt Ends, Brisket Mac n' Cheese Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 6.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Large-format Wrigleyville bar where smoked meats, country bands, and patio space converge.
Who should go: Groups pregaming Cubs games or planning casual celebrations.
When to visit: Game days and weekend nights for full patio and stage energy.
What to order: Pork baby back ribs, burnt ends, Brisket Mac n' Cheese sandwich.
Insider tip: For quicker service, book earlier time slots before first pitch or headliner sets.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site valet; metered street parking and nearby paid garages, but availability drops sharply on Cubs game days and weekend nights.
Dress code: Casual and game-day friendly — jerseys, jeans, and boots are common; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Loud during games and live music with limited conversation ability; more moderate earlier in the evening or on non-event weekdays.
Weekend wait: 30–75 minutes without a reservation on game days or during live music; shorter waits earlier in the evening.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with easy seating at the bar or patio when weather allows.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few sides and salads can work, but the menu is meat-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited — most items include meat, dairy, or sauces; best to confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Some smoked meats and simple sides can be prepared gluten-conscious on request, but there is no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, high-energy nights than intimate conversation — it plays best for fun, social dates or post-game meetups rather than quiet one-on-one dinners.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are common, but arrive early on game days or weekends; large groups should plan ahead or expect a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime and early evenings with spacious seating and approachable food; it skews adult-oriented and rowdier late at night and during big games.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, pre-game gatherings, patio hangs, and lively nights with music and drinks where barbecue is part of the experience rather than the sole focus.
Consider Alternatives If: You want quiet conversation, chef-driven barbecue, or dietary-restricted menus — a smaller, food-first smokehouse will be a better fit.